The worst thing about Munich

The worst thing about Munich is the thought of leaving it. It’s been 5 months since I’ve been here, I’ve got to know everything. I made new friends, learned a few things from my courses, and even learned some German.
I got here at the end of September. I had a week to settle in, and then the terror massacre on October 7th happened inIsrael. It was hard, try and live my life here, in the fun, cool, warless Munich, while back home my friends are being murdered, kidnapped, or rejoining the army.

In psychology there is a condition called ‘survivor guilt’. It happens when a person believes they have done something wrong by surviving a traumatic or tragic event when others did not. I felt like it wasn’t fair. How could I be here, drink coffee, travel and go to museums while my home burns?
It took some time, but I understood that me being here didn’t mean my family and friends would suffer more. Questions like “how come I am here while they are not?” or “what could I have done differently?” faded away and I decided to take this opportunity with both hands.

Trying to sum up my time here, these 5 basic journalist questions come to mind.
What, Who, Why and where and When.

What. What is the most memorable memory of Munich?

There were plenty of moments that I will take with me. I think one of them was the snowstorm in December. Snow is a big deal for me. In Israel, it never snows, and the minute I saw those small snowflakes, all of Frozen’s soundtrack played in my head.

Who. Who is the most special person you have met?

I think that one of my favorite people in Munich is one of the tutors in Olydorf, where I live. He is a student at TUM,studying information engineering and is originally from Turkey. On paper, we have nothing in common. And still, we became best friends. I love him and cherish my time with him.

Why. Why should I return to Munich?

Could it be for a PhD? Maybe for the next Octoberfest? Maybe to float in the Eischbach
At its full course? All of the above are good options. 

Where. Where should you visit in Munich?

Well, it might sound weird, but I’m really into history and museums. Combine this with the fact that I’m an LMU student, and my answer will be the white rose memorial exhibition in the LMU main building. Beside that, all the lakes surrounding the city are also a must. For me, it’s like seeing windows’ backgrounds in real life.

And the last question is when. When will I leave Munich?

After exploring and getting to know Munich in the last few months, and after understanding this is only the tip of the iceberg, I decided to extend my stay and stay in Munich for the summer semester!

The worst thing about Munich is indeed the thought about leaving it. That’s why I decided to make this thought go away, and think about all the new adventures, friends, places and foods I’ll find here.

Bis Später